Ramadan
Michael GALEA (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (09:51): Today I would like to extend my heartfelt best wishes to the diverse and growing Muslim community of the South-Eastern Metropolitan Region for a blessed and peaceful Ramadan. In the past week many in our region have commenced their observance of a month of fasting. With daylight saving still in effect, the fast stretches from around 10 to 6 in the morning to past 7:30 at night, marking a deep period of reflection and commitment. In the face of the challenges that come with global unrest and personal tribulations, the spirit of Ramadan gains even greater significance. Ramadan is an opportunity for our Muslim community to pause, reflect, extend empathy and offer support to those facing difficulties. It is also an opportunity for those outside of the faith to extend the same empathy. The pillars of Ramadan – fasting, prayer and acts of charity – are not just practices of personal endurance but actions that bring the community closer together. Here is to a fulfilling and peaceful Ramadan for those observing in my region and across Victoria. Ramadan Kareem.